Things To Do
in Lívingston

Lívingston, Guatemala is a vibrant town located on the Caribbean coast, known for its unique Garifuna culture and stunning natural scenery. The town is accessible only by boat, which adds to its charm and seclusion. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful beaches, lush jungles, and the lively atmosphere filled with music and dance.

Lívingston serves as a gateway to the Río Dulce and is a perfect spot for those looking to explore both nature and culture.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Lívingston
morning
:

Start your day with a traditional Garifuna breakfast at a local eatery, followed by a visit to the nearby Playa Blanca, known for its white sand and crystal-clear waters.

afternoon
:

Take a guided boat tour to explore the Río Dulce, visiting the hot springs and the scenic El Biotopo.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a beachfront restaurant, followed by live music or a traditional dance performance in the town square.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs.

afternoon
:

Engage in a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Garifuna dishes.

evening
:

Relax at a local bar with live music, enjoying traditional drinks like coconut water or rum cocktails.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$5-$10
🏨Budget Hotel Night$20-$50
🍹Cocktail at a Bar$3-$7
🚌Bus Fare to Nearby Town$1-$3
🛒Souvenirs at Local Market$5-$20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experience with Garifuna heritage.
  • Stunning natural beauty and diverse outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited access to certain amenities and services.
  • Can be difficult to reach due to boat access only.
  • Language barrier for those not speaking Spanish.
  • "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Me gustaría..." - I would like...

Places to Visit in Lívingston

Visit one of these nice places.

Playa Blanca

A stunning beach with white sand and turquoise waters, perfect for sunset photos.

Río Dulce

Picturesque river landscapes surrounded by lush greenery, ideal for nature photography.

Local Market

Vibrant scenes of local life, colorful stalls, and cultural interactions make for great candid shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Lívingston

Lívingston offers a unique culinary experience with its blend of Garifuna and Guatemalan cuisine, showcasing fresh seafood and tropical ingredients.

Lívingston Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Tapado

A rich coconut milk soup filled with various seafood, plantains, and vegetables.

Must-Try!

Hudut

A Garifuna dish consisting of fish cooked in a coconut sauce served with mashed green plantains.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and street food vendors offering quick bites.

Climate Guide

Weather

Lívingston has a tropical climate, characterized by high humidity and warm temperatures year-round. The dry season (November to April) sees temperatures averaging between 75°F to 90°F (24°C to 32°C), while the rainy season (May to October) can be hotter but is marked by afternoon showers. Expect cooler evenings during the dry season, while the rainy season may bring occasional thunderstorms.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A friendly handshake or a warm 'buenos días' is appreciated when meeting locals.

Respect for Culture

Be respectful and mindful when taking photos, especially in cultural or religious contexts.

Dress Modestly

While Lívingston is casual, dressing modestly is appreciated, especially when visiting local communities.

Safety Guide

Safety

Lívingston is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid displaying valuables in public and be cautious when walking alone at night. It's advisable to stay in well-lit areas and use trusted transportation methods.

Tipping in Lívingston

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

A tip of 10-15% is customary in restaurants, though it’s often appreciated for good service.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, with US dollars accepted in many places; credit cards are increasingly accepted but check beforehand.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November to April)

Ideal for visiting, with sunny days and minimal rain, perfect for outdoor activities.

Rainy Season (May to October)

Expect frequent rain showers, especially in the afternoons, but the landscape is lush and vibrant.

Hurricane Season (June to November)

While hurricanes are rare, it's advisable to keep an eye on weather reports during this time.

Festival Season

Various cultural festivals occur throughout the year, offering a unique glimpse into local traditions.

Nightlife Guide

Lívingston at Night

Lívingston has a lively nightlife scene, characterized by beachside bars and local music venues. The vibrant Garifuna culture is reflected in the live music and dance performances that take place in the town square. Visitors can enjoy a mix of reggae, punta, and traditional music while sipping on cocktails made from fresh local ingredients. The atmosphere is generally safe and welcoming, making it an enjoyable experience for all.

Hiking in Lívingston

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro San Gil

A popular hiking spot offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the Caribbean Sea.

National Park of Río Dulce

Trails within the park provide opportunities to explore diverse ecosystems and wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Lívingston by plane.

Puerto Barrios Airport (PBR)

Located approximately 30 minutes from Lívingston, this airport offers limited domestic flights, making it the nearest option for air travel.

Getting Around

Walkability

Lívingston is a walkable town, with most attractions, restaurants, and beaches accessible on foot. The compact layout encourages exploration, and the local streets are generally safe for pedestrians. However, be mindful of uneven pavement and occasional muddy paths, especially during the rainy season.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Garifuna Community

The Garifuna people are of African and Indigenous descent, known for their unique culture, music, and culinary traditions.

Mestizo Population

The Mestizo community comprises the majority of the population, blending Indigenous and Spanish cultures.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is immensely popular among locals, with many informal games taking place on the beach.

Bicycle Racing

Bicycle racing is a favored pastime, especially during local festivals and events.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Lívingston is generally light, with most transportation occurring on foot or by boat. Public transport options include small boats that ferry between towns along the coast. Roads are limited, with the primary access being through the river and sea.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Lívingston.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian meals, though options may be limited.

Gluten-Free Options

While gluten-free options are not commonly advertised, rice and beans are staples that can be enjoyed.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Lívingston is limited, with small clinics available for basic medical needs. For serious medical issues, travelers may need to travel to larger cities like Puerto Barrios or Guatemala City. It's recommended to have travel insurance and carry a basic first-aid kit.

Discover Guatemala

Read more in our Guatemala 2025 Travel Guide.

Guatemala Travel Guide